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No fewer than 70 armed bandits and cattle rustlers have been eliminated by the newly-launched troops of Operation Accord in Kachia Forest in Kaduna State.
The Coordinator, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. John Enenche made the disclosure in a statement on Saturday, in Abuja.
Enenche said the armed bandits were successfully wiped out, following a combined ground and air offensive conducted by troops of Operation Thunder Strike, under Operation Accord, in conjunction with troops of 312 Artillery Regiment and local Vigilantes in the area.
He said the offensive operation was a sequel to credible intel on the bandits’ movements within the area.
He explained that the troops pursued the bandits through Gidan Maikeri village in Chikun Local Government Area into the forest.
“Their location was identified and consequently engaged by Nigerian Air Force helicopter gunships,” said the Defence Media Coordinator in the statement.
“After the air interdiction, 70 bandits were confirmed killed by human intelligence while others escaped with injuries while exploitation operation is still being carried out by the troops in the forest.
“As a matter of security concern, people in this general area should report those with sudden and suspicious injuries to the security forces.
“This is to ensure that the escapees are mopped up.”
Enenche further revealed that troops of Operation Yaki, while blocking positions for Operation Accord at the outskirts of Kankomi village arrested two logistics suppliers to the bandits.
Items such as recharge cards, cigarettes, soft drinks and groceries were recovered.
The Military High Command however congratulated the troops of Operation Thunder Strike, Operation Yaki and Air Component of Operation Accord for their dexterity.
“The general public is requested to continue to provide timely and credible information that would assist in eliminating bandits and other criminal elements in the country,” he said.
